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The Teacher of Auschwitz
From the bestselling author of Born Survivors, a novel inspired by the powerful true story of a man who risked everything to protect children in Auschwitz.
Fredy built a wall against suffering in their hearts . . .
Amid the brutality of the Holocaust, one bright spot shone inside the Nazi death camp of Auschwitz. In the shadows of the smokestacks was a wooden hut where children sang, staged plays, wrote poetry, and learned about the world. Within those four walls, brightly adorned with hand-painted cartoons, the youngest prisoners were kept vermin-free, received better food, and were even taught to imagine having full stomachs and a day without fear. Their guiding light was a twenty-seven-year-old gay, Jewish Fredy Hirsch.
Being a teacher in a brutal concentration camp was no mean feat. Forced to beg senior SS officers for better provisions, Fredy risked his life every day to protect his beloved children from mortal danger.
But time was running out for Fredy and the hundreds in his care. Could this kind, compassionate, and brave man find a way to teach them the one lesson they really needed to how to survive?
The Teacher of Auschwitz shines a light on a truly remarkable individual and tells the inspiring story of how he fought to protect innocence and hope amid depravity and despair.
Fredy built a wall against suffering in their hearts . . .
Amid the brutality of the Holocaust, one bright spot shone inside the Nazi death camp of Auschwitz. In the shadows of the smokestacks was a wooden hut where children sang, staged plays, wrote poetry, and learned about the world. Within those four walls, brightly adorned with hand-painted cartoons, the youngest prisoners were kept vermin-free, received better food, and were even taught to imagine having full stomachs and a day without fear. Their guiding light was a twenty-seven-year-old gay, Jewish Fredy Hirsch.
Being a teacher in a brutal concentration camp was no mean feat. Forced to beg senior SS officers for better provisions, Fredy risked his life every day to protect his beloved children from mortal danger.
But time was running out for Fredy and the hundreds in his care. Could this kind, compassionate, and brave man find a way to teach them the one lesson they really needed to how to survive?
The Teacher of Auschwitz shines a light on a truly remarkable individual and tells the inspiring story of how he fought to protect innocence and hope amid depravity and despair.
368 pages, Paperback
First published January 2, 2025
292 people are currently reading
11862 people want to read
About the author
Wendy Holden
36 books264 followersWendy Holden, also known as Taylor Holden, is an experienced author and novelist with more than thirty books already published, including two novels. She has had numerous works transferred to radio and television.
A journalist for eighteen years, ten on the Daily Telegraph of London, her first novel THE SENSE OF PAPER was published by Random House, New York, in 2006 to widespread critical acclaim. Her non-fiction titles have chiefly chronicled the lives of remarkable subjects. The latest is BORN SURVIVORS, the incredible story of three mothers who defied death at the hands of the Nazis to give life. She has also written the memoir of the only woman in the French Foreign Legion in TOMORROW TO BE BRAVE, and about the mother of a woman killed after marrying a Sudanese warlord in TILL THE SUN GROWS COLD. She wrote A LOTUS GROWS IN THE MUD - the memoir of actress Goldie Hawn - and LADY BLUE EYES, the autobiography of Frank Sinatra’s widow Barbara, all of which were New York Times and Sunday Times bestsellers.
She also wrote the international bestseller TEN MINDFUL MINUTES, her second book with Goldie Hawn and the first in a series of books for parents and children. She wrote KILL SWITCH, the memoir of an honourable British soldier wrongly imprisoned in Afghanistan as well as BEHIND ENEMY LINES, about a young Jewish spy who repeatedly crossed German lines. Her book MEMORIES ARE MADE OF THIS, a biography of Dean Martin as seen through his daughter’s eyes has become an enduring bestseller and she worked with Billy Connolly on JOURNEY TO THE EDGE OF THE WORLD his TV-companion travel guide to the Northwest Passage screened around the world. She co-wrote American male supermodel Bruce Hulse’s explosive memoir, SEX, LOVE AND FASHION. Other works have included CENTRAL 822, the autobiography of a pioneering policewoman at Scotland Yard which was dramatised on BBC Radio, BITING THE BULLET, charting the remarkable life of an SAS wife, and FOOTPRINTS IN THE SNOW, the story of a paraplegic made into a British TV drama starring Caroline Quentin. Wendy was also responsible for the bestselling novelisations of the films THE FULL MONTY and WAKING NED. Her first book, UNLAWFUL CARNAL KNOWLEDGE the true story of the controversial Irish abortion case was banned in Ireland. SHELL SHOCK, her history of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, went with an award-winning Channel 4 television documentary series. She lives in Suffolk, England, with her husband and two dogs and divides her time between the UK and the US.
A journalist for eighteen years, ten on the Daily Telegraph of London, her first novel THE SENSE OF PAPER was published by Random House, New York, in 2006 to widespread critical acclaim. Her non-fiction titles have chiefly chronicled the lives of remarkable subjects. The latest is BORN SURVIVORS, the incredible story of three mothers who defied death at the hands of the Nazis to give life. She has also written the memoir of the only woman in the French Foreign Legion in TOMORROW TO BE BRAVE, and about the mother of a woman killed after marrying a Sudanese warlord in TILL THE SUN GROWS COLD. She wrote A LOTUS GROWS IN THE MUD - the memoir of actress Goldie Hawn - and LADY BLUE EYES, the autobiography of Frank Sinatra’s widow Barbara, all of which were New York Times and Sunday Times bestsellers.
She also wrote the international bestseller TEN MINDFUL MINUTES, her second book with Goldie Hawn and the first in a series of books for parents and children. She wrote KILL SWITCH, the memoir of an honourable British soldier wrongly imprisoned in Afghanistan as well as BEHIND ENEMY LINES, about a young Jewish spy who repeatedly crossed German lines. Her book MEMORIES ARE MADE OF THIS, a biography of Dean Martin as seen through his daughter’s eyes has become an enduring bestseller and she worked with Billy Connolly on JOURNEY TO THE EDGE OF THE WORLD his TV-companion travel guide to the Northwest Passage screened around the world. She co-wrote American male supermodel Bruce Hulse’s explosive memoir, SEX, LOVE AND FASHION. Other works have included CENTRAL 822, the autobiography of a pioneering policewoman at Scotland Yard which was dramatised on BBC Radio, BITING THE BULLET, charting the remarkable life of an SAS wife, and FOOTPRINTS IN THE SNOW, the story of a paraplegic made into a British TV drama starring Caroline Quentin. Wendy was also responsible for the bestselling novelisations of the films THE FULL MONTY and WAKING NED. Her first book, UNLAWFUL CARNAL KNOWLEDGE the true story of the controversial Irish abortion case was banned in Ireland. SHELL SHOCK, her history of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, went with an award-winning Channel 4 television documentary series. She lives in Suffolk, England, with her husband and two dogs and divides her time between the UK and the US.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 186 reviews
July 24, 2025
In a Nutshell: A WWII fiction based on the inspiring life of Fredy Kirsch, a homosexual German Jew. Could have done better on a couple of factors, but overall, it was exactly as you would expect from this kind of book: heartwarming and heartbreaking in equal measure. I avoid WWII fiction these days, but this one was worth a pick just to know Fredy. Recommended.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Plot Preview:
After having burnt myself out on WWII fiction a couple of years ago, I diligently avoid picking up books where the blurb even mentions any year between 1939 to 1945 as all these novels have started blending into each other. Another thing I am fed up of is books with a mention of Auschwitz in the title. After ‘The Tattooist of Auschwitz’ became such a bestseller a few years ago, there came a spate of books (both fiction and nonfiction) using similar titles: ‘The Sisters of Auschwitz’, ‘The Brothers of Auschwitz’, ‘The Redhead of Auschwitz’, ‘The Midwife of Auschwitz’, ‘The Dressmakers of Auschwitz’, ‘The Violinist of Auschwitz’, ‘The Child of Auschwitz’, and so many more. It felt like originality had been lost. Why then did I choose a book with a title in the same mundane structure? Simple. The word ‘teacher’ intrigued me, and the blurb stressed on how much Fredy loved children. I have a soft spot for kids, so I knew I had to read the story of a man who did his best to keep children happy even in such miserable conditions.
Bookish Yays:
👌 Fredy Kirsch. The man and the character. Loved him and everything he stood for. A bit too idealistic and impulsive at times, but also utterly selfless and inspiring. It is good to know that the kids around him had someone like Fredy to care for them.
👌 The depiction of the struggles faced by children in the ghetto and the concentration camp and how Fredy and his ragtag group kept the children motivated. Not that I didn’t know about such atrocities before, but their stories still broke my heart. Reading about human unkindness towards children never becomes easier. 😢
👌 The plot development, with the story beginning at the deep end and then moving across timelines to offer a back-perspective of Fredy’s life. An interesting structural choice, it worked well for me as it revealed Fredy’s character and the influential moments of his life in an orderly manner. (Slightly tricky to follow on audio, though.)
👌 The two divisions of the plot: pre-Auschwitz (which itself has two subdivisions – Fredy’s past and the ghetto years) and Auschwitz. Not many WWII novels focus on the ghetto experience in such detail. So it’s like reading Jewish persecution at two levels: brutal (ghetto) and deadly (Auschwitz camp.)
👌 The research, be it into Fredy’s life or socio-political circumstances or the cruelties against the Jews (including but not restricted to German Jews) or Nazi wickedness or the actual camp conditions. Impeccable! I never thought I still had new facts to learn about Auschwitz.
👌 The character-focussed writing, which helps us understand key characters even when we see them only through Fredy’s eyes. The description of the places is understandably limited, but the details about the human experiences are brilliant.
👌 The ending. Well, it was what I expected and it also wasn’t. Not at all an easy scene to get through, but given the facts, I guess I understand why the book ended that way.
Bookish Mixed Bags:
🤔 The use of the first-person point of view to tell this story. While I loved hearing the story from Fredy’s direct perspective, it was still awkward at times as the first-person voice tends to make everything seem intimate and factual. Listening to Fredy’s sentiments towards children and his confusion over his sexual identity feels genuine, but hearing him voice his attraction and physical stirrings for some male characters feels invasive. I wish the romance-related aspects of Fredy’s life had not been written in detail. (The scenes are closed-door, but still…) I always find it awkward to read about intimate relations between people who actually lived in the past. Would Fredy have liked to see that part of his life become public knowledge? I think not.
🤔 At times, facts are casually thrown into verbal conversations, possibly to educate the reader about what was happening outside. Most of the times, this is smoothly done, but sometimes, it is quite distracting, as it feels like the character is spouting a fact at random even though the character he is speaking with might already know the situation.
🤔 The preface, which makes clear right at the start the true basis of this semi-biographical story. And the author’s note at the end, offering details of Fredy’s life and her research. I just wish there had been some clarity on which parts of Fredy’s life had been fictionalised and where his direct quotes were taken from.
Bookish Nays:
👎 The title – boring and overused. Moreover, thanks to the title (and the blurb), we know beforehand that Fredy will end up in Auschwitz. A major chunk of the book is NOT set in Auschwitz.
👎 A few scenes, especially connected to the random interactions between known people at new locations, felt a bit serendipitous. Given the number of Jews in the ghetto and the concentration camp, this was too fortuitous to accept.
🎧 The Audiobook Experience:
The audiobook, clocking at 10 hrs 9 min, is narrated by George Naylor. He does a commendable job and I absolutely loved his powerful performance. I also appreciate that the author’s note is included in the audio version; we audiobook listeners are often bereft of this chance. Do note that with the back and forth across multiple timelines from multiple locations and numerous overlapping characters, the audiobook is better suited to experienced listeners.
All in all, as expected, this wasn’t an easy read. Many of the scenes are not just sad but also traumatising. This book depicts the true picture of Auschwitz, not the romanticised version sold by Heather Morris in ‘The Tattooist of Auschwitz’.
On an aside, due to my narrow-minded approach towards ‘The ----- of Auschwitz’ titles, I missed out on another WWII semi-biographical novel: ‘The Librarian of Auschwitz’, based on the life of Auschwitz survivor Dita Kraus. Fredy had an important role to play in her life, so if you have read that novel, you might already know a little about him. Dita has a small appearance in this latest novel celebrating Fredy.
Definitely recommended to historical fiction fans. Even if the writing choices could have done better to some extent, the overall book is still worth a read to commemorate Fredy and his sacrifices.
3.75 stars.
My thanks to Bonnier Books UK and Zaffre for providing the DRC, and to HarperAudio Adult and Harper Perennial for providing the ALC of “The Teacher of Auschwitz” via NetGalley. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Connect with me through:
My Blog || The StoryGraph || Instagram || Threads || X/Twitter || Facebook ||
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Plot Preview:
"I'm a teacher. I'm a dreamer. I'm not just a number."
Fredy Kirsch was a twenty-seven-year old teacher with a passion for teaching, music, sports, and children. He used all of these attributes when he was forced into a Jewish ghetto in Czechoslovakia. His main aim was to ensure the welfare of children, and to not make them feel the pain of their living conditions. However, things were soon going to get worse. Would it even be possible to keep children safe in Auschwitz?
The story comes to us in the first-person perspective of Fredy over multiple back-and-forth timelines, spanning 1924 to 1944.
After having burnt myself out on WWII fiction a couple of years ago, I diligently avoid picking up books where the blurb even mentions any year between 1939 to 1945 as all these novels have started blending into each other. Another thing I am fed up of is books with a mention of Auschwitz in the title. After ‘The Tattooist of Auschwitz’ became such a bestseller a few years ago, there came a spate of books (both fiction and nonfiction) using similar titles: ‘The Sisters of Auschwitz’, ‘The Brothers of Auschwitz’, ‘The Redhead of Auschwitz’, ‘The Midwife of Auschwitz’, ‘The Dressmakers of Auschwitz’, ‘The Violinist of Auschwitz’, ‘The Child of Auschwitz’, and so many more. It felt like originality had been lost. Why then did I choose a book with a title in the same mundane structure? Simple. The word ‘teacher’ intrigued me, and the blurb stressed on how much Fredy loved children. I have a soft spot for kids, so I knew I had to read the story of a man who did his best to keep children happy even in such miserable conditions.
Bookish Yays:
👌 Fredy Kirsch. The man and the character. Loved him and everything he stood for. A bit too idealistic and impulsive at times, but also utterly selfless and inspiring. It is good to know that the kids around him had someone like Fredy to care for them.
👌 The depiction of the struggles faced by children in the ghetto and the concentration camp and how Fredy and his ragtag group kept the children motivated. Not that I didn’t know about such atrocities before, but their stories still broke my heart. Reading about human unkindness towards children never becomes easier. 😢
👌 The plot development, with the story beginning at the deep end and then moving across timelines to offer a back-perspective of Fredy’s life. An interesting structural choice, it worked well for me as it revealed Fredy’s character and the influential moments of his life in an orderly manner. (Slightly tricky to follow on audio, though.)
👌 The two divisions of the plot: pre-Auschwitz (which itself has two subdivisions – Fredy’s past and the ghetto years) and Auschwitz. Not many WWII novels focus on the ghetto experience in such detail. So it’s like reading Jewish persecution at two levels: brutal (ghetto) and deadly (Auschwitz camp.)
👌 The research, be it into Fredy’s life or socio-political circumstances or the cruelties against the Jews (including but not restricted to German Jews) or Nazi wickedness or the actual camp conditions. Impeccable! I never thought I still had new facts to learn about Auschwitz.
👌 The character-focussed writing, which helps us understand key characters even when we see them only through Fredy’s eyes. The description of the places is understandably limited, but the details about the human experiences are brilliant.
👌 The ending. Well, it was what I expected and it also wasn’t. Not at all an easy scene to get through, but given the facts, I guess I understand why the book ended that way.
Bookish Mixed Bags:
🤔 The use of the first-person point of view to tell this story. While I loved hearing the story from Fredy’s direct perspective, it was still awkward at times as the first-person voice tends to make everything seem intimate and factual. Listening to Fredy’s sentiments towards children and his confusion over his sexual identity feels genuine, but hearing him voice his attraction and physical stirrings for some male characters feels invasive. I wish the romance-related aspects of Fredy’s life had not been written in detail. (The scenes are closed-door, but still…) I always find it awkward to read about intimate relations between people who actually lived in the past. Would Fredy have liked to see that part of his life become public knowledge? I think not.
🤔 At times, facts are casually thrown into verbal conversations, possibly to educate the reader about what was happening outside. Most of the times, this is smoothly done, but sometimes, it is quite distracting, as it feels like the character is spouting a fact at random even though the character he is speaking with might already know the situation.
🤔 The preface, which makes clear right at the start the true basis of this semi-biographical story. And the author’s note at the end, offering details of Fredy’s life and her research. I just wish there had been some clarity on which parts of Fredy’s life had been fictionalised and where his direct quotes were taken from.
Bookish Nays:
👎 The title – boring and overused. Moreover, thanks to the title (and the blurb), we know beforehand that Fredy will end up in Auschwitz. A major chunk of the book is NOT set in Auschwitz.
👎 A few scenes, especially connected to the random interactions between known people at new locations, felt a bit serendipitous. Given the number of Jews in the ghetto and the concentration camp, this was too fortuitous to accept.
🎧 The Audiobook Experience:
The audiobook, clocking at 10 hrs 9 min, is narrated by George Naylor. He does a commendable job and I absolutely loved his powerful performance. I also appreciate that the author’s note is included in the audio version; we audiobook listeners are often bereft of this chance. Do note that with the back and forth across multiple timelines from multiple locations and numerous overlapping characters, the audiobook is better suited to experienced listeners.
All in all, as expected, this wasn’t an easy read. Many of the scenes are not just sad but also traumatising. This book depicts the true picture of Auschwitz, not the romanticised version sold by Heather Morris in ‘The Tattooist of Auschwitz’.
On an aside, due to my narrow-minded approach towards ‘The ----- of Auschwitz’ titles, I missed out on another WWII semi-biographical novel: ‘The Librarian of Auschwitz’, based on the life of Auschwitz survivor Dita Kraus. Fredy had an important role to play in her life, so if you have read that novel, you might already know a little about him. Dita has a small appearance in this latest novel celebrating Fredy.
Definitely recommended to historical fiction fans. Even if the writing choices could have done better to some extent, the overall book is still worth a read to commemorate Fredy and his sacrifices.
3.75 stars.
My thanks to Bonnier Books UK and Zaffre for providing the DRC, and to HarperAudio Adult and Harper Perennial for providing the ALC of “The Teacher of Auschwitz” via NetGalley. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Connect with me through:
My Blog || The StoryGraph || Instagram || Threads || X/Twitter || Facebook ||
July 10, 2025
This novel is based on the real life of Alfred “Fredy” Hirsch, a twenty seven year old Jewish man who was a member of the Zionist Youth Movement and a sports teacher.
During the time he spent in the Terezin ghetto, in Czechoslovakia and Theresienstadt concentration camp and Auschwitz. He helped thousands of children who were forced to witness and live through one of the most horrific times in history by providing a distraction and letting them still be kids. They sang, listened to stories, put on plays, wrote poetry, and drew pictures. Freddy knew to have any hope of surviving they had to be kept, vermin-free, get better food, exercise and use their imaginations as a way of giving their minds a rest from what was going on around them.
He provided joy, respite, comfort, hope and at a time the children needed it the most, the narrative is a fitting tribute to an amazing and man who was kind, compassionate and when there was very little shown towards Jewish children.
I received a copy of The Teacher of Auschwitz from Edelweiss Plus and HarperCollins in exchange for an honest review. While the story written by Wendy Holden is sad, Freddy Hirsch was a brave and inspirational man, not any easy read but an important one and four and a half stars.
Children suffered and still are and why do we not learn from the past and some countries continue to make the same mistakes?
During the time he spent in the Terezin ghetto, in Czechoslovakia and Theresienstadt concentration camp and Auschwitz. He helped thousands of children who were forced to witness and live through one of the most horrific times in history by providing a distraction and letting them still be kids. They sang, listened to stories, put on plays, wrote poetry, and drew pictures. Freddy knew to have any hope of surviving they had to be kept, vermin-free, get better food, exercise and use their imaginations as a way of giving their minds a rest from what was going on around them.
He provided joy, respite, comfort, hope and at a time the children needed it the most, the narrative is a fitting tribute to an amazing and man who was kind, compassionate and when there was very little shown towards Jewish children.
I received a copy of The Teacher of Auschwitz from Edelweiss Plus and HarperCollins in exchange for an honest review. While the story written by Wendy Holden is sad, Freddy Hirsch was a brave and inspirational man, not any easy read but an important one and four and a half stars.
Children suffered and still are and why do we not learn from the past and some countries continue to make the same mistakes?
March 29, 2025
Interesting novel based on real events bittersweet and how humans can treat each other so badly
April 4, 2025
“We are the same, all of us, no matter how we once defined ourselves…We will be judged for our hearts…for the love we gave and the love we received”.
Through Fredy, Holden’s well researched novel touches on the significance of safeguarding our youth from their worldly surrounds in a dark, dark place of war. In the Terezín ghetto and later Auschwitz, Fredy strove to improve these young minds, in the hopes that they would rebuild a better future if they ever made it out of the war. Fredy puts aside his own fears, personal needs and hunger for the children he protects and teaches. He instilled hope in those around him, hope of survival in the most evil of situations. This to me was a true act of altruism and leadership. Fredy instills strength and resilience inspiring his students to remain one’s self instead of merely surrendering to a number. He achieved this through kindness, resourcefulness, respect to our elders, humour, love and generosity even in a world where one would figuratively and realistically starve to death and loose their identity.
The alternating chapters of Fredy’s life on the cusps of the war and then during the war enrich his character development. It gives us readers a true insight to his life and how his passion for teaching the youth is held to upmost importance especially right up to the end of his life.
“What the hell happened to humanity?” No matter how many books I’ve read about the holocaust it’s still so hard to wrap my mind around the cruelty of it all. Millions of names have sadly been forgotten. Reading stories of the past not only bares witness to the atrocities that occurred but it keeps names like Fredy Hirsch alive.
Through Fredy, Holden’s well researched novel touches on the significance of safeguarding our youth from their worldly surrounds in a dark, dark place of war. In the Terezín ghetto and later Auschwitz, Fredy strove to improve these young minds, in the hopes that they would rebuild a better future if they ever made it out of the war. Fredy puts aside his own fears, personal needs and hunger for the children he protects and teaches. He instilled hope in those around him, hope of survival in the most evil of situations. This to me was a true act of altruism and leadership. Fredy instills strength and resilience inspiring his students to remain one’s self instead of merely surrendering to a number. He achieved this through kindness, resourcefulness, respect to our elders, humour, love and generosity even in a world where one would figuratively and realistically starve to death and loose their identity.
The alternating chapters of Fredy’s life on the cusps of the war and then during the war enrich his character development. It gives us readers a true insight to his life and how his passion for teaching the youth is held to upmost importance especially right up to the end of his life.
“What the hell happened to humanity?” No matter how many books I’ve read about the holocaust it’s still so hard to wrap my mind around the cruelty of it all. Millions of names have sadly been forgotten. Reading stories of the past not only bares witness to the atrocities that occurred but it keeps names like Fredy Hirsch alive.
August 6, 2025
Završih ga ja. :D
Mislim da moram malo da iskuliram s logorima (znam da imam gomilu započetih), ali pre nego što pauziram, htela sam da završim ovu jer su mi ljudi dali primerak pa da ne ispadnem stoka nezahvalna.
Dakle, glavni junak je Fredi Kirš, dvadesetsedmogodišnji učitelj, voli čovek svoju profesiju, voli decu, sve što vole mladi, ali pošto je život uglavnom jedna vreća govana, Fredi završava u getu u Čehoslovačkoj. Pošto vidi koliko je sati i kakva im je sudbina, Fredi se okreće deci i pronalaženju načina da ublaži haos u kom su se našli. I onda završe u Aušvicu i ajd ti sačuvaj decu od horora tamo.
:DUBOK UZDAH:
Insipirsana je stvarnim događajima, siroma Fredi nije dočekao oslobođenje. Dopala mi se karakterizacija, dopalo mi se kako je konstruisana priča i vidi se da je žena sela i istražila sve detaljno.
Malo me je smorilo što imamo Aušvic u naslovu i onda imamo radnju koja se dobrim delom dešava na drugim mestima. Msm, da me ne shvatite pogrešno, nemam ja neki kink vezan za toponim i priča je zapravo postavljena tako dobro da te zvekne i pre kulminacije, nego mi je prosto bilo bljutavo jer zaista moramo da prestanemo s komerijalizacijom užasa.
:čisto da razjasnimo, pre nego što sam tražila knjigu od izdavača, pročitala sam blurb i guglala da vidim je l lažu da je po istinitom događaju, ali jbm mu miška i ja sam pala na naslov kme:
Fala izdavaču i Edelweiss-u na primerku, završila bih ja i ranije, ali umorila sam se brate, od danas iskam samo ljubiće.
EDIT: Ako ste čitali Tetovažere, Apotekare :ubaci zanimanje po izboru: a Laguna odluči da doda i ovo u svoja AUŠVIC sabrana dela, čitajte, bolja je od ovih što su ih već objavili. (kontam da nije samo Laguna, ali shvate šta hoću da kažem, mrzelo me da guglam ko sve ima spisak logorskih zanimanja)
Mislim da moram malo da iskuliram s logorima (znam da imam gomilu započetih), ali pre nego što pauziram, htela sam da završim ovu jer su mi ljudi dali primerak pa da ne ispadnem stoka nezahvalna.
Dakle, glavni junak je Fredi Kirš, dvadesetsedmogodišnji učitelj, voli čovek svoju profesiju, voli decu, sve što vole mladi, ali pošto je život uglavnom jedna vreća govana, Fredi završava u getu u Čehoslovačkoj. Pošto vidi koliko je sati i kakva im je sudbina, Fredi se okreće deci i pronalaženju načina da ublaži haos u kom su se našli. I onda završe u Aušvicu i ajd ti sačuvaj decu od horora tamo.
:DUBOK UZDAH:
Insipirsana je stvarnim događajima, siroma Fredi nije dočekao oslobođenje. Dopala mi se karakterizacija, dopalo mi se kako je konstruisana priča i vidi se da je žena sela i istražila sve detaljno.
Malo me je smorilo što imamo Aušvic u naslovu i onda imamo radnju koja se dobrim delom dešava na drugim mestima. Msm, da me ne shvatite pogrešno, nemam ja neki kink vezan za toponim i priča je zapravo postavljena tako dobro da te zvekne i pre kulminacije, nego mi je prosto bilo bljutavo jer zaista moramo da prestanemo s komerijalizacijom užasa.
:čisto da razjasnimo, pre nego što sam tražila knjigu od izdavača, pročitala sam blurb i guglala da vidim je l lažu da je po istinitom događaju, ali jbm mu miška i ja sam pala na naslov kme:
Fala izdavaču i Edelweiss-u na primerku, završila bih ja i ranije, ali umorila sam se brate, od danas iskam samo ljubiće.
EDIT: Ako ste čitali Tetovažere, Apotekare :ubaci zanimanje po izboru: a Laguna odluči da doda i ovo u svoja AUŠVIC sabrana dela, čitajte, bolja je od ovih što su ih već objavili. (kontam da nije samo Laguna, ali shvate šta hoću da kažem, mrzelo me da guglam ko sve ima spisak logorskih zanimanja)
June 17, 2025
This book is based on the real life of Alfred “Fredy” Hirsch’s and the way he left a huge and beautiful impact on the kids that were forced to go through the atrocities of Terezín and Auschwitz’s. Through all the malice happening to them he found a way to bring much needed comfort and distraction to the kids there. It’s very well written and is a beautiful tribute to Fredy Hirsch and highlights what an incredibly selfless, compassionate, and caring person he was.
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
May 30, 2025
Special thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for a free, electronic ARC of this novel received in exchange for an honest review.
Expected publication date: June 17, 2025
World War two non-fiction writer Wendy Holden’s new book, “The Teacher of Auschwitz” highlights the life and death of Auschwitz camp prisoner Fredy Hirsch. Fredy, who was both Jewish and German, had a passion for helping children, being a role model, scout leader, guide and teacher before the war. As both a gay man and a Jew, Fredy’s life was doubly threatened when the Nazi SS came, sending Fredy and most of the children he loved in a cramped train to the freezing cold, barren death camp. Once at Auschwitz, Fredy made it his mission to help the traumatized children collecting there, encouraging them to paint and sing and laugh, while, daily, those around them were being sent to the gas chambers.
Fredy Hirsch was a real-life Auschwitz prisoner and, although he did not make it home, his story is powerful and gripping. Using letters, diary entries and conversations with living survivors, Holden does her best to create a true-to-life tale of Fredy’s experiences.
The story is broken into two parts; the first part bounces back and forth between different stages of Fredy’s life, before and during the Nazi occupation. Although a little disjointed, since it isn’t told chronologically, the story details the important aspects of Fredy’s life, including his important relationships and how he came to be the type of person he was. The second part is much easier to follow as it flows from one month to the next during Fredy’s time in Auschwitz. Combined, the two sections tell the lost tale of one of the many heroes of the infamous prison camp.
“Auschwitz” is written as if it was orally narrated, low on descriptive detail and high on conversation and character development, but this style makes sense when you consider that Holden was going off of the personal notes and interviews of Fredy’s friends and neighbours.
“The Teacher of Auschwitz” has a unique perspective as Fredy was, unfortunately, not an Auschwitz survivor. He did, however, play an important role in the camp and is forever remembered by the children whose lives he touched. Holden’s story is emotional, eye-opening and touching but, obviously, it is not an easy read. Stories of the horrors of Auschwitz and other similar camps need to continue to be told, and the heroes and survivors need to be remembered. “Auschwitz” by Holden does this in spades, ensuring Fredy’s name does not end up lost to history.
Expected publication date: June 17, 2025
World War two non-fiction writer Wendy Holden’s new book, “The Teacher of Auschwitz” highlights the life and death of Auschwitz camp prisoner Fredy Hirsch. Fredy, who was both Jewish and German, had a passion for helping children, being a role model, scout leader, guide and teacher before the war. As both a gay man and a Jew, Fredy’s life was doubly threatened when the Nazi SS came, sending Fredy and most of the children he loved in a cramped train to the freezing cold, barren death camp. Once at Auschwitz, Fredy made it his mission to help the traumatized children collecting there, encouraging them to paint and sing and laugh, while, daily, those around them were being sent to the gas chambers.
Fredy Hirsch was a real-life Auschwitz prisoner and, although he did not make it home, his story is powerful and gripping. Using letters, diary entries and conversations with living survivors, Holden does her best to create a true-to-life tale of Fredy’s experiences.
The story is broken into two parts; the first part bounces back and forth between different stages of Fredy’s life, before and during the Nazi occupation. Although a little disjointed, since it isn’t told chronologically, the story details the important aspects of Fredy’s life, including his important relationships and how he came to be the type of person he was. The second part is much easier to follow as it flows from one month to the next during Fredy’s time in Auschwitz. Combined, the two sections tell the lost tale of one of the many heroes of the infamous prison camp.
“Auschwitz” is written as if it was orally narrated, low on descriptive detail and high on conversation and character development, but this style makes sense when you consider that Holden was going off of the personal notes and interviews of Fredy’s friends and neighbours.
“The Teacher of Auschwitz” has a unique perspective as Fredy was, unfortunately, not an Auschwitz survivor. He did, however, play an important role in the camp and is forever remembered by the children whose lives he touched. Holden’s story is emotional, eye-opening and touching but, obviously, it is not an easy read. Stories of the horrors of Auschwitz and other similar camps need to continue to be told, and the heroes and survivors need to be remembered. “Auschwitz” by Holden does this in spades, ensuring Fredy’s name does not end up lost to history.
July 3, 2025
This was a powerful and emotional read that shed light on a part of Holocaust history I hadn’t known much about. The Teacher of Auschwitz tells the incredible story of Fredy Hirsch, a brave and compassionate young man who created a safe space for children inside the horrors of Auschwitz. It’s heartbreaking, inspiring, and a reminder of how hope and humanity can survive even in the darkest places. Huge thanks to NetGalley for the opportunity to read this unforgettable historical fiction novel.
April 20, 2025
The horrors of Auschwitz are amplified when a focus is put on the children and orphans who were subjected to the same brutality and cruelty as all Jews.
Selfless carers and former teachers assumed responsibility and care for these beautiful souls.
Fredy Hirsch directed all his love and devotion to shining a light on the brief lives of many children.
A dedication and selflessness that killed him.
Building trust, providing education and entertainment and fighting to improve conditions was his only agenda for the children in his care.
A beguiling Dr Mengeles offered false hope but meticulously and ruthlessly fulfilled his own agenda.
Not all heroes wear capes and Fredy is proof of this.
This was a rough and tough emotional read but one that paid tribute to a man who deserves every accolade for his accomplishments and kindness.
The shadows and fog of war extinguished many bright lights and haunted survivors with horrific demons.
Fredy may have had only 28 years of life but his memory will now serve as a reminder for many generations to come.
Selfless carers and former teachers assumed responsibility and care for these beautiful souls.
Fredy Hirsch directed all his love and devotion to shining a light on the brief lives of many children.
A dedication and selflessness that killed him.
Building trust, providing education and entertainment and fighting to improve conditions was his only agenda for the children in his care.
A beguiling Dr Mengeles offered false hope but meticulously and ruthlessly fulfilled his own agenda.
Not all heroes wear capes and Fredy is proof of this.
This was a rough and tough emotional read but one that paid tribute to a man who deserves every accolade for his accomplishments and kindness.
The shadows and fog of war extinguished many bright lights and haunted survivors with horrific demons.
Fredy may have had only 28 years of life but his memory will now serve as a reminder for many generations to come.
April 13, 2025
Absolutely heartbreaking but what an inspiring true story of Fredy Hirsch, who taught, looked after and kept the spirit up of thousands of children during WWII.
September 3, 2025
Knew what was coming and it still made me cry. Nothing more profound than a historical fiction based on facts & rooted in memory. What an amazing man Fredy Hirsch was, and how amazing to have a book about his story.
It was a little slow at times and at the beginning of the book when we we are getting to know Fredy, the jumps to different time periods confused me a little but without a doubt, I would recommend this to anyone who uses historical fiction to get to know about real-life stories.
I never knew about the family camp at Auschwitz, even though I’ve been… I just presumed that all the children lost their lives 💔 but in the midst of one of the worst places on earth there were people who worked to try and ensure children didn’t lose all hope even in a place as horrific as a death camp. I still can’t comprehend what happened there.
It was a little slow at times and at the beginning of the book when we we are getting to know Fredy, the jumps to different time periods confused me a little but without a doubt, I would recommend this to anyone who uses historical fiction to get to know about real-life stories.
I never knew about the family camp at Auschwitz, even though I’ve been… I just presumed that all the children lost their lives 💔 but in the midst of one of the worst places on earth there were people who worked to try and ensure children didn’t lose all hope even in a place as horrific as a death camp. I still can’t comprehend what happened there.
July 19, 2025
Talk about emotional. I thought I was ready to dive into the mind of Fredy and read this historical fiction story and those that he impacted, but it hit me hard.
Fredy spent time in the Terezin ghetto in Czechoslovakia, Theresienstadt and Auschwitz II- Birkenau where he helped thousands of children by trying to bring light and goodness to their lives by singing, putting on plays, drawing and having athletic competitions/exercise. He also helped them by trying to get them as much extra food, keeping them healthy and clean and protecting them as much as he could.
The quotes at the end from holocaust survivors were so powerful.
4.5 stars rounding up.
Fredy spent time in the Terezin ghetto in Czechoslovakia, Theresienstadt and Auschwitz II- Birkenau where he helped thousands of children by trying to bring light and goodness to their lives by singing, putting on plays, drawing and having athletic competitions/exercise. He also helped them by trying to get them as much extra food, keeping them healthy and clean and protecting them as much as he could.
The quotes at the end from holocaust survivors were so powerful.
4.5 stars rounding up.
August 11, 2025
3.5 rounded up.
March 4, 2025
Fredy Hirsch 💛
August 6, 2025
Author Wendy Holden heard about Fredy Hirsch. and decided to write a book based on his life, which was cut short (at 27 years) by the Nazis.
For the years Fredy was alive, he dedicated every moment to the well being of youth (all children, until the Nuremberg laws restricted him to Jewish children).
From the moment he voluntarily arrived at Terrzin Ghetto, his concern was to ease the life of the children, sparing them as much trauma as possible as possible; singing and playing, sharing, respecting, and trying, as difficult as it was, to stay clean.
Remember his name, “Alfred “Fredy” Hirsch.
For the years Fredy was alive, he dedicated every moment to the well being of youth (all children, until the Nuremberg laws restricted him to Jewish children).
From the moment he voluntarily arrived at Terrzin Ghetto, his concern was to ease the life of the children, sparing them as much trauma as possible as possible; singing and playing, sharing, respecting, and trying, as difficult as it was, to stay clean.
Remember his name, “Alfred “Fredy” Hirsch.
April 14, 2025
„Nauczyciel z Auschwitz” Wendy Holden to powieść inspirowana prawdziwą historią, w której trudno o optymizm i nadzieję. Nie byłam gotowa na emocje, które po sobie pozostawiła, a jednak to jedna z tych powieści, które nie tyle warto, co trzeba przeczytać. Dla pamięci. Dla emocji. Dla tego, by nigdy nie zapomnieć, że nawet w największym mroku można być światłem.
Nie sądziłam, że po tylu przeczytanych książkach o Auschwitz, ta historia może złamać mi serce, a jednocześnie zostawić je przepełnione wdzięcznością i podziwem. A jednak „Nauczyciel z Auschwitz” zrobił to z brutalną delikatnością. Poruszył we mnie wszystko, czego się nie spodziewałam: strach, wzruszenie, gniew i cichy podziw dla człowieka, który w piekle postanowił ratować nie tylko życie dzieci, ale i ich dusze.
Od pierwszych stron byłam wstrząśnięta. Wrzesień 1943. Brama Auschwitz. Wrzeszczący esesmani, dym z komina, który śmierdzi spalanym życiem, i procedura przyjęcia, która odbiera godność i napawa panicznym strachem. Ale ta historia nie zaczyna się tam. Cofamy się do Terezina. Getta. Miejsca, które nie jest jeszcze obozem śmierci, ale już odbiera ludziom nadzieję.
Poznaję Fredy’ego Hirscha, mężczyznę, który kocha dzieci tak, jakby były jego własnym światłem w ciemności, a ich ochrona misją jego życia. Nie może patrzeć na cierpienie i robi wszystko, by zorganizować im namiastkę normalności: kącik, w którym można się uczyć, ciepłą zupę, zabawę. I robi to w świecie, który zapomniał, czym jest człowieczeństwo.
Każda strona tej książki boli. Boli, gdy Fredy musi patrzeć, jak dzieci wsiadają do transportu, z którego nikt nie wraca. Boli, gdy walczy z własnym strachem, by stawić czoła esesmanom. Gdy pyta samego siebie, czy tworząc dzieciom pozory normalności - teatrzyk, bajkę w środku obozu śmierci, pomaga, czy tylko oszukuje ich i siebie.
W Auschwitz organizuje dla dzieci osobny blok. Naucza. Bawi. Wspiera. Daje nadzieję. Dba o ich ciała i dusze, choć sam przeczuwa, że wszyscy są już skazani. Jego życie to nieustanny akt odwagi. Nie z bronią w ręku, ale z otwartym sercem. I tak bardzo chciałam, żeby ocalał.
Kiedy czytałam o tym, jak przedstawiają „Królewnę Śnieżkę”, a za ścianą budynku obok giną tysiące ludzi czułam, jak pęka we mnie coś głęboko. Jak można kochać tak mocno, by w miejscu bez wyjścia dawać dzieciom światło?
Nie chcę zdradzać zakończenia, choć jego dramatyczna prawda zostaje w czytelniku na zawsze. Jestem wdzięczna Wendy Holden, że oddała głos Fredy’emu Hirshowi. I dała nam szansę, byśmy go usłyszeli, bo dzięki tej książce jego miłość, determinacja, człowieczeństwo przetrwały.
Nie sądziłam, że po tylu przeczytanych książkach o Auschwitz, ta historia może złamać mi serce, a jednocześnie zostawić je przepełnione wdzięcznością i podziwem. A jednak „Nauczyciel z Auschwitz” zrobił to z brutalną delikatnością. Poruszył we mnie wszystko, czego się nie spodziewałam: strach, wzruszenie, gniew i cichy podziw dla człowieka, który w piekle postanowił ratować nie tylko życie dzieci, ale i ich dusze.
Od pierwszych stron byłam wstrząśnięta. Wrzesień 1943. Brama Auschwitz. Wrzeszczący esesmani, dym z komina, który śmierdzi spalanym życiem, i procedura przyjęcia, która odbiera godność i napawa panicznym strachem. Ale ta historia nie zaczyna się tam. Cofamy się do Terezina. Getta. Miejsca, które nie jest jeszcze obozem śmierci, ale już odbiera ludziom nadzieję.
Poznaję Fredy’ego Hirscha, mężczyznę, który kocha dzieci tak, jakby były jego własnym światłem w ciemności, a ich ochrona misją jego życia. Nie może patrzeć na cierpienie i robi wszystko, by zorganizować im namiastkę normalności: kącik, w którym można się uczyć, ciepłą zupę, zabawę. I robi to w świecie, który zapomniał, czym jest człowieczeństwo.
Każda strona tej książki boli. Boli, gdy Fredy musi patrzeć, jak dzieci wsiadają do transportu, z którego nikt nie wraca. Boli, gdy walczy z własnym strachem, by stawić czoła esesmanom. Gdy pyta samego siebie, czy tworząc dzieciom pozory normalności - teatrzyk, bajkę w środku obozu śmierci, pomaga, czy tylko oszukuje ich i siebie.
W Auschwitz organizuje dla dzieci osobny blok. Naucza. Bawi. Wspiera. Daje nadzieję. Dba o ich ciała i dusze, choć sam przeczuwa, że wszyscy są już skazani. Jego życie to nieustanny akt odwagi. Nie z bronią w ręku, ale z otwartym sercem. I tak bardzo chciałam, żeby ocalał.
Kiedy czytałam o tym, jak przedstawiają „Królewnę Śnieżkę”, a za ścianą budynku obok giną tysiące ludzi czułam, jak pęka we mnie coś głęboko. Jak można kochać tak mocno, by w miejscu bez wyjścia dawać dzieciom światło?
Nie chcę zdradzać zakończenia, choć jego dramatyczna prawda zostaje w czytelniku na zawsze. Jestem wdzięczna Wendy Holden, że oddała głos Fredy’emu Hirshowi. I dała nam szansę, byśmy go usłyszeli, bo dzięki tej książce jego miłość, determinacja, człowieczeństwo przetrwały.
December 17, 2024
Thank you to NetGalley for an ARC of this book.
I find the stories of those who experienced the holocaust incredibly devastating, inspiring and important, and the story of Fredy Hirsch is no exception.
The author has so clearly taken a great deal of time and consideration in how she’s gracefully written Fredy’s story. The way in which she details the impact Fredy had on the lives of so many feels so well demonstrated and the use of fictionalised characters has been done simply to depict his innate goodness successfully, without creating a work of fiction.
This isn’t the sort of book I couldn’t put down and felt desperate to read given the harrowing nature, but at no point did I lose interest in the story of Fredy Hirsch and felt the ending was incredibly poignant, respectful and necessary.
I would recommend this book to anybody who would like to read more on this topic following books such as The Tattooist of Auschwitz and The Choice.
I find the stories of those who experienced the holocaust incredibly devastating, inspiring and important, and the story of Fredy Hirsch is no exception.
The author has so clearly taken a great deal of time and consideration in how she’s gracefully written Fredy’s story. The way in which she details the impact Fredy had on the lives of so many feels so well demonstrated and the use of fictionalised characters has been done simply to depict his innate goodness successfully, without creating a work of fiction.
This isn’t the sort of book I couldn’t put down and felt desperate to read given the harrowing nature, but at no point did I lose interest in the story of Fredy Hirsch and felt the ending was incredibly poignant, respectful and necessary.
I would recommend this book to anybody who would like to read more on this topic following books such as The Tattooist of Auschwitz and The Choice.
April 25, 2025
A fascinating story of a truly remarkable man whose light shone bright during the darkest days of humanity. Fredy created a piece of heaven for the children. His devotion to their safety and wellbeing is a true testament to the kind of person he was. I’ve come across references to Fredy in quite a few books, so to be able to read about his life (however brief it was) has been very insightful.
This is definitely a book that is a required read.
This is definitely a book that is a required read.
April 15, 2025
Wendy Holden, autorka książki „My, dzieci z obozów”, opowiadającej prawdziwą historię trzech ciężarnych Żydówek będących więźniarkami obozu koncentracyjnego, oraz poruszającej opowieści „Oddaję Ci swoje serce”, o dwóch rodzinach – polskiej i żydowskiej – oddaje w ręce czytelników kolejną wzruszającą historię inspirowaną życiem Fredy'ego Hirscha.
„Mam na imię Alfred, Alfred Hirsch, choć przyjaciele wołają na mnie Fredy. […].
Aż do ostatniego tchu walczyłem, aby rozjaśnić dni tych, którzy zginą razem ze mną i ocalić tych, którzy przeżyją. Oni są moim prawdziwym dziedzictwem”.
„Nauczyciel z Auschwitz” autorstwa Wendy Holden to przejmująca i poruszająca najczulsze strony serca opowieść inspirowana historią niezwykłego mężczyzny o wielkim sercu. Fredy Hirsch, młody żydowski więzień obozu Auschwitz, pełnił rolę nauczyciela w nazistowskim obozie zagłady. Każdego dnia, ryzykując życie, starał się chronić dzieci przed zagrażającym im niebezpieczeństwem, błagając oficerów SS o lepsze zaopatrzenie, by w ostatnich chwilach zapewnić im namiastkę normalności w miejscu, które było piekłem na ziemi. Jego niesamowita zaradność i odwaga pozwoliły dzieciom zachować odrobinę radości i śmiechu w surowym i przerażającym otoczeniu. Fredy Hirsch robił wszystko, aby przynieść nadzieję i godność dzieciom uwięzionym w Auschwitz.
Wendy Hoden, czerpiąc z wspomnień ocalałych z Holokaustu, przelała na papier poruszającą historię, która od pierwszych stron wciąga czytelnika. Autorka, łącząc fikcję z prawdziwymi wydarzeniami, oddaje w ręce czytelników niezwykłą opowieść, którą czyta się jednym tchem. Strony powieści przelatują przez palce, a z każdej z nich wylewa się tak wielka fala emocji, że trudno powstrzymać napływające do oczu łzy. Holden ma niesamowity talent do tworzenia wzruszających historii; potrafi w sposób autentyczny, z dbałością o szczegóły oraz niesamowitą wrażliwością, odzwierciedlić realia życia w obozie koncentracyjnym.
„Nauczyciel z Auschwitz” to jedna z tych powieści, które pozostawiają niezatarte ślady i na długo zakorzeniają się w pamięci oraz sercu czytelnika. Powieść Wendy Holden to niezwykle poruszająca opowieść, która ukazuje prawdziwą, rozdzierającą serce historię o niezwykłym poświęceniu i odwadze w najmroczniejszych czasach w dziejach ludzkości. Jest jednak również niezwykle piękna, ponieważ ukazuje bezwarunkową miłość do dzieci i oddanie. Z całego serca polecam.
„Mam na imię Alfred, Alfred Hirsch, choć przyjaciele wołają na mnie Fredy. […].
Aż do ostatniego tchu walczyłem, aby rozjaśnić dni tych, którzy zginą razem ze mną i ocalić tych, którzy przeżyją. Oni są moim prawdziwym dziedzictwem”.
„Nauczyciel z Auschwitz” autorstwa Wendy Holden to przejmująca i poruszająca najczulsze strony serca opowieść inspirowana historią niezwykłego mężczyzny o wielkim sercu. Fredy Hirsch, młody żydowski więzień obozu Auschwitz, pełnił rolę nauczyciela w nazistowskim obozie zagłady. Każdego dnia, ryzykując życie, starał się chronić dzieci przed zagrażającym im niebezpieczeństwem, błagając oficerów SS o lepsze zaopatrzenie, by w ostatnich chwilach zapewnić im namiastkę normalności w miejscu, które było piekłem na ziemi. Jego niesamowita zaradność i odwaga pozwoliły dzieciom zachować odrobinę radości i śmiechu w surowym i przerażającym otoczeniu. Fredy Hirsch robił wszystko, aby przynieść nadzieję i godność dzieciom uwięzionym w Auschwitz.
Wendy Hoden, czerpiąc z wspomnień ocalałych z Holokaustu, przelała na papier poruszającą historię, która od pierwszych stron wciąga czytelnika. Autorka, łącząc fikcję z prawdziwymi wydarzeniami, oddaje w ręce czytelników niezwykłą opowieść, którą czyta się jednym tchem. Strony powieści przelatują przez palce, a z każdej z nich wylewa się tak wielka fala emocji, że trudno powstrzymać napływające do oczu łzy. Holden ma niesamowity talent do tworzenia wzruszających historii; potrafi w sposób autentyczny, z dbałością o szczegóły oraz niesamowitą wrażliwością, odzwierciedlić realia życia w obozie koncentracyjnym.
„Nauczyciel z Auschwitz” to jedna z tych powieści, które pozostawiają niezatarte ślady i na długo zakorzeniają się w pamięci oraz sercu czytelnika. Powieść Wendy Holden to niezwykle poruszająca opowieść, która ukazuje prawdziwą, rozdzierającą serce historię o niezwykłym poświęceniu i odwadze w najmroczniejszych czasach w dziejach ludzkości. Jest jednak również niezwykle piękna, ponieważ ukazuje bezwarunkową miłość do dzieci i oddanie. Z całego serca polecam.
June 18, 2025
Firstly I wanna thank, Harper Perennial for providing me with an ARC of The Teacher of Auschwitz by bestselling author Wendy Holden. This novel recounts a heavily researched yet fictionalized account of the life of Alfred Hirsch a Jewish young man who did everything he could to protect the Jewish children from the darkness of the Nazi regime and from the horrors of Auschwitz. What Wendy Holden did was to tell his story in such a brilliant way that it both delighted and terrified me. Dividing the book in two parts. The first one goes back and forth, in alternating chapters, between two very different pasts. The first one being his life growing up in an increasingly hostile Germany and how he eventually has to flee in an attempt to escape his fate, and the second one taking place in the Terezín ghetto in Czechoslovakia as living conditions grow ever more precarious. The second half of the book is much darker as it goes in chronologically order of the events that took place when he was deported to the infamous concentration camp Auschwitz-Birkenau.
Before this I knew nothing about Alfred Hirsch or his story. And I love that Wendy Holden did everything she could, narratively speaking to tell us who he was and what he did in a very tactful way. She took care of respectfully breathing life into his work and sacrifice.This book truly broke my heart because all Fredy did was born out of love and a wish to protect the children from the terrible things he knew awaited them.
I’m giving this book 4.5/ 5 stars. And I genuinely recommend it to everyone so that the memory of Fredy Hirsch may live forever and be a beacon of light in dark times.
Before this I knew nothing about Alfred Hirsch or his story. And I love that Wendy Holden did everything she could, narratively speaking to tell us who he was and what he did in a very tactful way. She took care of respectfully breathing life into his work and sacrifice.This book truly broke my heart because all Fredy did was born out of love and a wish to protect the children from the terrible things he knew awaited them.
I’m giving this book 4.5/ 5 stars. And I genuinely recommend it to everyone so that the memory of Fredy Hirsch may live forever and be a beacon of light in dark times.
January 11, 2025
I really like the book cover with the bright yellow butterfly representing freedom, that the Jewish people had in their hand until the Nazis snatched it away. The butterfly would also represent the hope that Fredy tried to give all the children that were ever in his care. The cover image would also fit a scene in the book very well too.
The bright yellow amongst the other more drab colours certainly catches your eye, so I would think the book would stand out on a bookshelf well.
The book’s prologue reveals Fredy’s arrival at Auschwitz and explains the conditions those prisoners had to endure on what was a long journey. All crammed into the carriage with just one bucket of drinking water for the whole carriage. Many died on journeys like this one and Fredy’s carriage was no exception to deaths, hysteria and a mixture of denial and fear. Denial that they could be going any where worse than where they had just been and fear that the rumours they had heard about the mass extermination of Jews was true and that when they got to where ever they were going they would either be immediately murdered or would be worked to death and suffer every day until they died. Those “looking on the bright side” as many valiantly tried to do would be telling those around them that this place could be better, that they wouldn’t be here long as the allies were winning the war etc. Even Fredy had tried to “look for the good” as he always did hoping they were not going to Auschwitz, even though those around Fredy told him what SB6 meant on the transportation paperwork, Fredy had hoped so much they were going to be wrong.
The book then flips back to Fredy’s early life with his family. Fredy didn't have the best or easiest childhood, never feeling he fit in at home or at school, perhaps that's what taught him to always search for the good in what he had and what was around him.
Fredy moves around in an attempt to stay ahead of the Nazis as many Jewish people did at that time. Fredy also realises he is “different” he doesn’t have a girlfriend, nor does he want one. This is something that causes him many problems in the jobs he does with people jumping to the conclusion he is homosexual which at the time was still a controversial topic and of course the Nazis party hated it and threw homosexual people or anyone they suspected of being homosexual into camps. Fredy does date a few women in an attempt to satisfy what was expected of him by those employing him. Fredy has an excellent work ethic and always strives to be as fit and healthy as he can be. He eventually meets and embark on a relationship with Jenda whose family also welcome him. Jenda is somewhat protected by his family and their wealthy status and has yet to really experience racism, anti-homosexuality & the Nazis regime.
Eventually, as with most people the Nazis caught up with Fredy and he ended up in the Thereseinstadt Ghetto. Fredy immediately offered himself forward to Jakob Edelstein, the leader of the Jewish Council there to work with the children and help care for the other people forced to live in the ghetto.
At Auschwitz Fredy helped those around him clamber from the carriages, those Auschwitz prisoners in the striped uniforms try to offer advice and answer questions without drawing the ire of the Nazis who basically want everyone moved and sorted as quickly as possible. When people notice the black smoke coming from two tall chimneys, one comments of the smell wondering what it is, one says it smells rancid, one of the people in the striped uniforms answers 'rotten flesh usually is'.
Fredy tries to help those around him quickly adapt and comply with the harsh orders that are being barked at them by the Nazis. When their heads are shaven, and they are directed to the showers, Fredy hopes its water that comes out of the shower heads not gas. Then clothes thrown at them by those in the striped uniforms, no chance to find sizes just put on what you’re given and be quick about it. Next there’s the line to be tattooed. When a nearby guard hears Fredy speaking, trying to reassure the younger people around him he realises that Fredy is German he instructs Fredy he is exempt from the tattooing. If these Jewish prisoners thought conditions and life were hard in Thereseinstadt they are soon wishing them selves back there. Auschwitz is a concentration camp with one purpose, to exterminate the Jewish people as Adolf Hitler and his Nazi party have decreed.
Fredy helped a lot of children 'escape' the horrors of Thereseinstadt, then Auschwitz in creating as safe a haven as was possible. Then, via the concerts, he & the children performed, he provided some 'relief' from the terrors of the daily life of existing in Auschwitz. Fredy and those he asked to help him taught the children so they did not totally miss out on an education, though doing this was strictly forbidden by the Nazis. Fredy created 'games' that meant the children had some outlet & and escapism, yet by playing the games, there were serious lessons behind them, such as obeying the Nazis. He taught them morals and values, not to steal from each other, to help each other and to respect the older prisoners too. Fredy managed to get as many children as he could way from the harsher conditions and routines of Auschwitz. He is constantly worrying about these young people especially when Dr Mengele shows an interest. Fredy isn’t a push over for the youngsters though and when one breaks Fredys groups rules, he kicks him out of the group.
The book is well written and describes things so well that you can both visualise and almost “feel” the surroundings, such as when Fredy describes the train carriages as 'a coffin on wheels' you can imagine how claustrophobic those inside the carriages must have felt with no option but to stand pressed up against each other.
Though the book is fiction it is based on real people and events. If you’ve read Heather Morris books then this book is written in a similar way and is well worth reading. Though these books may be fictionalised they need to be read so the real people and their stories are never forgotten. Fredy Hirsch is one of the many names that should always be taught about and remembered as he truly did build a wall against suffering in the hearts of those around him.
The bright yellow amongst the other more drab colours certainly catches your eye, so I would think the book would stand out on a bookshelf well.
The book’s prologue reveals Fredy’s arrival at Auschwitz and explains the conditions those prisoners had to endure on what was a long journey. All crammed into the carriage with just one bucket of drinking water for the whole carriage. Many died on journeys like this one and Fredy’s carriage was no exception to deaths, hysteria and a mixture of denial and fear. Denial that they could be going any where worse than where they had just been and fear that the rumours they had heard about the mass extermination of Jews was true and that when they got to where ever they were going they would either be immediately murdered or would be worked to death and suffer every day until they died. Those “looking on the bright side” as many valiantly tried to do would be telling those around them that this place could be better, that they wouldn’t be here long as the allies were winning the war etc. Even Fredy had tried to “look for the good” as he always did hoping they were not going to Auschwitz, even though those around Fredy told him what SB6 meant on the transportation paperwork, Fredy had hoped so much they were going to be wrong.
The book then flips back to Fredy’s early life with his family. Fredy didn't have the best or easiest childhood, never feeling he fit in at home or at school, perhaps that's what taught him to always search for the good in what he had and what was around him.
Fredy moves around in an attempt to stay ahead of the Nazis as many Jewish people did at that time. Fredy also realises he is “different” he doesn’t have a girlfriend, nor does he want one. This is something that causes him many problems in the jobs he does with people jumping to the conclusion he is homosexual which at the time was still a controversial topic and of course the Nazis party hated it and threw homosexual people or anyone they suspected of being homosexual into camps. Fredy does date a few women in an attempt to satisfy what was expected of him by those employing him. Fredy has an excellent work ethic and always strives to be as fit and healthy as he can be. He eventually meets and embark on a relationship with Jenda whose family also welcome him. Jenda is somewhat protected by his family and their wealthy status and has yet to really experience racism, anti-homosexuality & the Nazis regime.
Eventually, as with most people the Nazis caught up with Fredy and he ended up in the Thereseinstadt Ghetto. Fredy immediately offered himself forward to Jakob Edelstein, the leader of the Jewish Council there to work with the children and help care for the other people forced to live in the ghetto.
At Auschwitz Fredy helped those around him clamber from the carriages, those Auschwitz prisoners in the striped uniforms try to offer advice and answer questions without drawing the ire of the Nazis who basically want everyone moved and sorted as quickly as possible. When people notice the black smoke coming from two tall chimneys, one comments of the smell wondering what it is, one says it smells rancid, one of the people in the striped uniforms answers 'rotten flesh usually is'.
Fredy tries to help those around him quickly adapt and comply with the harsh orders that are being barked at them by the Nazis. When their heads are shaven, and they are directed to the showers, Fredy hopes its water that comes out of the shower heads not gas. Then clothes thrown at them by those in the striped uniforms, no chance to find sizes just put on what you’re given and be quick about it. Next there’s the line to be tattooed. When a nearby guard hears Fredy speaking, trying to reassure the younger people around him he realises that Fredy is German he instructs Fredy he is exempt from the tattooing. If these Jewish prisoners thought conditions and life were hard in Thereseinstadt they are soon wishing them selves back there. Auschwitz is a concentration camp with one purpose, to exterminate the Jewish people as Adolf Hitler and his Nazi party have decreed.
Fredy helped a lot of children 'escape' the horrors of Thereseinstadt, then Auschwitz in creating as safe a haven as was possible. Then, via the concerts, he & the children performed, he provided some 'relief' from the terrors of the daily life of existing in Auschwitz. Fredy and those he asked to help him taught the children so they did not totally miss out on an education, though doing this was strictly forbidden by the Nazis. Fredy created 'games' that meant the children had some outlet & and escapism, yet by playing the games, there were serious lessons behind them, such as obeying the Nazis. He taught them morals and values, not to steal from each other, to help each other and to respect the older prisoners too. Fredy managed to get as many children as he could way from the harsher conditions and routines of Auschwitz. He is constantly worrying about these young people especially when Dr Mengele shows an interest. Fredy isn’t a push over for the youngsters though and when one breaks Fredys groups rules, he kicks him out of the group.
The book is well written and describes things so well that you can both visualise and almost “feel” the surroundings, such as when Fredy describes the train carriages as 'a coffin on wheels' you can imagine how claustrophobic those inside the carriages must have felt with no option but to stand pressed up against each other.
Though the book is fiction it is based on real people and events. If you’ve read Heather Morris books then this book is written in a similar way and is well worth reading. Though these books may be fictionalised they need to be read so the real people and their stories are never forgotten. Fredy Hirsch is one of the many names that should always be taught about and remembered as he truly did build a wall against suffering in the hearts of those around him.
June 17, 2025
This book tells the true story of Fredy Hirsch. He was a 27-year-old gay, Jewish athlete who dedicated his life to protecting children inside the walls of Auschwitz. Growing up he wasn’t a great student so focused on being an athlete. He was always trying to help others and we follow his life until he is sent to the concentration camp.
He continued his focus on helping others. He risked his life daily to get the kids just a little food, songs to sing and poetry to write. He begged and begged was able to use an abandoned space for the kids.
This book is moving and heartbreaking and emotional and takes place in such a dark moment is history…but also shines a light on what hope and bravery truly look like.
This story has been heavily researched and you can tell the author really put the time in to make this as accurate as possible.
There is an especially touching section at the end called Survivor Testimonials….I highly recommend giving it a read.
He continued his focus on helping others. He risked his life daily to get the kids just a little food, songs to sing and poetry to write. He begged and begged was able to use an abandoned space for the kids.
This book is moving and heartbreaking and emotional and takes place in such a dark moment is history…but also shines a light on what hope and bravery truly look like.
This story has been heavily researched and you can tell the author really put the time in to make this as accurate as possible.
There is an especially touching section at the end called Survivor Testimonials….I highly recommend giving it a read.
August 9, 2025
4.25
This book ripped my heart out. Unbelievably well researched and written, gotta confess that I thought it was an autobiography… I don’t think anything in my life (including visiting Auschwitz) has made me realise the horrors of the holocaust more than this book.
The book is told first person from the view of Fredy Hirsh, a man who was not only an angel in the darkest of place and times but also must’ve been a genius. To be a prisoner in Aushwitz and to ask Mengele for a favour (AND have it granted) is astounding to me. Bloke had some cojones.
The book really gives you a feel of how the holocaust developed from the end of WW1 and how persecuted the Jews were at the time and particularly in the 1930s pre WW2.
I really didn’t have this book or topic in my sights and tbh I wasn’t looking forward to reading it (as someone who tries not to focus on the bad in the world) but I’m stoked that I was lent it (thanks Jake), I learnt a lot and many things in this book will stay with me.
This book ripped my heart out. Unbelievably well researched and written, gotta confess that I thought it was an autobiography… I don’t think anything in my life (including visiting Auschwitz) has made me realise the horrors of the holocaust more than this book.
The book is told first person from the view of Fredy Hirsh, a man who was not only an angel in the darkest of place and times but also must’ve been a genius. To be a prisoner in Aushwitz and to ask Mengele for a favour (AND have it granted) is astounding to me. Bloke had some cojones.
The book really gives you a feel of how the holocaust developed from the end of WW1 and how persecuted the Jews were at the time and particularly in the 1930s pre WW2.
I really didn’t have this book or topic in my sights and tbh I wasn’t looking forward to reading it (as someone who tries not to focus on the bad in the world) but I’m stoked that I was lent it (thanks Jake), I learnt a lot and many things in this book will stay with me.
June 22, 2025
This is such a sad sad story, as is all stories regarding the Holocaust. Fredy Hirsch was a hero and a fine example of an extraordinary human being. The things he went out of his way to do, to help others, including children in his care, is something to be remembered and talked about to future generations. And even though, this isn't 100% factual, the way this book was written, it was difficult to separate what could be facts vs fiction. It was a very well-written book that I feel people should read. We can't ever repeat what happened and to do that, everyone needs to remember what happened. Great book. Highly recommend.
August 24, 2025
this book, like any Holocaust book I've read, will stay with me for a while. what an incredible selfless man. it's awful how his life was cut short when he could have given so much more to the world. never forget Fredy Hirsch 😭💔
June 8, 2025
4.5 ⭐️
so I’m not okay
so I’m not okay
June 19, 2025
Thanks to NetGalley and the author for this audible arc. Heartbreaking story of a teacher in the worst of times as a Jewish leader trying to survive and help many others along the way.
August 10, 2025
Such a powerful read. As a teacher myself of young children it was heartfelt to see how hard he worked to protect these children from the horrors around them.
August 21, 2025
A slowish start. No real storyline but talks about him as a person and his life. A lot of pages had me shaking my head in disgust with what they all went through.
March 8, 2025
Thanks @FionaWright for gifting this book to me. Loved it!
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